# Shields

/ˈʃiɫdz/ (US) · /ʃˈiːldz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shields
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 2. protective barriers

noun · CEFR B2

things that act as a barrier to keep someone or something safe from harm.

For teachers: objects or layers that serve as a protective barrier against physical impact, radiation, or heat.

- The workers wore face shields to protect their eyes from sparks.
- Engineers designed lead shields to contain the radiation within the experimental chamber.

## Examples

- The knight carries one of the heavy metal shields.
- Modern police officers often use transparent plastic shields to protect themselves during dangerous protests.
- The spacecraft is equipped with thermal shields designed to withstand the intense friction and heat generated during atmospheric reentry.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
